Datatec`s Westcon Group, Inc., a global specialty distributor of networking technology products, today announced that Thomas E. Dolan, co-founder of the company, Executive Vice President and a member of the Board of Directors, has been named President and Chief Executive Officer.
Dolan succeeds Alan Marc Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer since 2001, who has fulfilled his vision to transform Westcon into a leading specialty distributor of convergence and security technologies. Smith will pursue new challenges and business opportunities and will remain with Westcon for a transition period and intends to retain his equity stake, reflecting his confidence in the company`s long-term potential.
Dolan, 50, has served in a wide range of executive roles since co-founding Westcon in 1985, and has taken part in nearly all of the company`s significant achievements during its history. Most recently he has served as an Executive Vice President and worked closely with Smith in setting the company`s strategic direction, managing operations, identifying acquisition opportunities and preparing the company for a NASDAQ IPO. From 2001 to 2002 he served as Chairman to the Board and from 2000 to 2001 he was President and CEO. From the company`s founding in 1985 to 2000 he served as Executive Vice President of Worldwide Sales and Marketing.
Says Dolan: "I look forward to the opportunity to again serve as CEO of Westcon. We now enjoy a reputation as one of the world`s leading specialty distributors of networking and communications products. Now that we are positioned as an industry leader, the time is right for me to return to the CEO post and we expect that the transition will be seamless."
Commenting on the transition, Datatec CEO Jens Montanana said: "Under Alan`s leadership the company has emerged from three years of industry contraction and intensive competitive pressures in better shape than many of its peers, having succeeded in growing market share and defending its above industry average margins. Alan has been a tremendous operator ensuring the company was sufficiently internally focused on matters that count in tough markets, working capital management and strengthening the balance sheet.
"We are very excited that Tom Dolan has accepted the new role. His considerable sales and marketing background will benefit the company which believes it is entering a period of sustainable growth where opportunities exist to improve margins and drive the front end of the business," said Montanana.
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